The 2023 ChaLou Quixotic Pinot Noir, Orange is the flagship Pinot Noir from ChaLou Wines, produced only in exceptional vintages from the estate's high-altitude vineyard at 900 metres in Orange, New South Wales. Crafted by Nadja Wallington and Steve Mobbs, this tiny-production reserve wine is selected from the finest barrels and includes 50% whole bunches, bringing added perfume, complexity and structure. The nose is intensely aromatic, revealing black cherry, bilberry and wild raspberry layered with lilac, lavender, juniper, cassia bark and delicate spice. Awarded 96 points by Halliday Wine Companion, it is a benchmark cool-climate Australian Pinot Noir.
On the palate, it is medium-bodied with silky, fine-grained tannins, vibrant acidity and remarkable precision. Concentrated red and dark berry fruit is complemented by savoury herbs, subtle oak and a refined mineral backbone, leading to a long, elegant finish with exceptional balance and persistence. Powerful yet graceful, it is a superb expression of Orange Pinot Noir with outstanding ageing potential.
Ben’s Recommendation:
The 2023 ChaLou Quixotic Pinot Noir, Orange pairs beautifully with roast duck, quail, mushroom risotto, herb-crusted lamb, grilled salmon or mature Comté. Enjoy now with a short decant, or cellar confidently through 2037 as its complexity, finesse and savoury character continue to evolve.
